Middlesbrough midfielder Fabio Rochemback has revealed he could be set to leave the North East in order to return to his former employers Sporting.

The Brazil international signed for Boro from the Portuguese club in 2005 and has been a regular in the side ever since, including under Gareth Southgate in the current campaign.

"There will always be speculation," he said. "I have not received a formal offer but it appears there could be the chance for us to speak [to Sporting]. I would consider a return to Portugal."

Rochemback went on to explain that a move away from The Premier League is far from concrete and is likely to hinge on Boro's desire to keep hold of him.

"Middlesbrough have the first option to extend my stay by two years but must confirm their wish to do so by April 31 [2008]," he added.